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SPOTLIGHT
Reaching out to the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts
Connecting the youth to the Natural Landmarks…
The Irvine Ranch Conservancy (IRC) has launched a pilot program with Laguna Hills High School biology classes in an effort to educate students about the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. IRC naturalists incorporated information about this unique landscape with biology class curriculum during a presentation to students in late February. On March 6th, the naturalists led a field tour in and around the Augustine Staging Area for approximately 65 Laguna Hills High School students. They explored the Natural Landmarks, learned about the habitats that exist within the landscape and got hands-on, field exposure during an interpretive hike. “Our students and faculty have been very excited about this program,” says Elissa Babiuk, Biology Teacher, Laguna Hills High School. “It's a better learning experience for these students when they can actually get out of the class room and see for themselves how amazing nature is.” The goal of this program is to connect with a younger group of participants and let them know about the many outdoor adventures that are available in their backyards. They can spread the word about the opportunities and sign up for free, outdoor programs with their extended network of family and friends. “This program can help to foster an interest in nature and outdoor activities and in return the students may want to help with the long-term preservation of the land,” says David Raetz, Director of Public Programs, IRC. “Overall, expanding our outreach efforts and connecting people of all ages to the Natural Landmarks can only benefit the land. The more people connect to it, the more they’ll appreciate it and participate in preservation efforts.” This program with Laguna Hills High School is only a pilot program and IRC hopes to learn from it, improve upon it and engage other public schools in the future. To learn more about the Natural Landmarks visit http://www.irvineranchwildlands.org/default.asp.
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